As Newcastle fans, none of us want to see Bruno Guimarães leave St James’ Park. He has been one of the club’s most influential players since arriving and has played a huge role in Newcastle’s rise over the last few seasons.

But football moves quickly, and if Arsenal or another club were to meet Newcastle’s reported £80 million valuation, you have to ask whether it would actually represent good business.

This is how I believe Newcastle could line up if Bruno were to leave without another major replacement arriving immediately.

Starting XI

GK: Lukáš Horníček

RB: Tino Livramento
CB: Malick Thiaw
CB: Sven Botman
LB: Lewis Hall

CM: Aladji Bamba
CM: Lewis Miley
CM: Joelinton

RW: Anthony Elanga
ST: William Osula
LW: Harvey Barnes

Bench

• Nick Pope (if he remains at the club)
• Dan Burn
• Fabian Schär
• Sean Steur
• Jacob Murphy
• Yoane Wissa
• Joe Willock
• Jacob Ramsey

Looking at that squad, it still isn’t a bad team at all.

Yes, Bruno has been unbelievable in a black-and-white shirt and replacing his quality would never be easy. However, if Newcastle receive around £80 million, it may simply be too good an opportunity to turn down.

Bruno has given everything to the club, but you also have to wonder whether we’ve already seen the very best years of his career. If Newcastle can reinvest that money wisely into younger players with high ceilings, it could strengthen the squad over the long term.

I actually like the direction the club appears to be taking. The recruitment strategy feels similar to Borussia Dortmund’s model—identifying elite young talent before they become global superstars, developing them, and building a squad that can compete for years rather than relying on expensive, established names.

It may not be the most popular opinion, but if Bruno leaves for the right fee, I don’t think it’s the disaster many people fear. I think Newcastle have a clear plan, and I genuinely believe the future remains very bright under this recruitment strategy.

What do you think, Newcastle fans? Would you accept £80 million for Bruno Guimarães, or is he simply too important to sell? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.